Annie Wilcox Photography

On the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, the Calanais Standing Stones are a photographers dream, shrouded in mystery and steeped in legend. Erected in the Neolithic era, they have stood the test of time on the rugged Scottish landscape for over 5,000 years.

The main site, known as Calanais I, features a central stone circle surrounded by a cross-shaped setting of standing stones. At dawn of the midsummer solstice, the sun rises in perfect alignment with the avenue of stones. Does this hint at the astronomical significance of the stones and part of the reason their creation?

Local folklore tells tales of giants who refused to convert to Christianity and were turned to stone as punishment.

A wonderful sight steeped in mystery and a must visit in the Isle.

Horgabost is yet another stunning white sandy Hebridean beach located on South Harris.

The beach looks straight out over the Sound of Taransay with the mountains beyond forming a spectacular backdrop.

Looks can be deceptive though - you can’t see the constant gusting northerly wind on a photo! 🤨 💨

No further than ankles I’m afraid 🤣 🌊

Next stop, the largest island in the Outer Hebrides, Harris and Lewis which share the same landmass. It's the third largest island in the British Isles after Great Britain and Ireland and covers an area of over 810 sq miles (2,100 sq km).

Nestled on the Isle of Scalpay next to Harris stands the Eilean Glas Lighthouse. It is one of the oldest in Scotland and was first illuminated in 1789, making it a crucial navigational aid for navigating the treacherous waters of the Minch, the strait that separates the Isle of Lewis and Harris from mainland Scotland. It was designed by Thomas Smith, a pioneering lighthouse engineer, and later improved by the famous engineer Robert Stevenson.

The 2km well marked walk gives you panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse complex includes the original keeper’s cottages and outbuildings, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families who once lived in this remote location. Make sure you pop into the old engine room for a cup of tea and cake.

It was time to say farewell to the Uists. Nestled in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, the Uists have been captivating, apart from the unseasonal northerly winds for the duration. At least it kept the midges away!

The Uists are linked by non-tidal causeways, joining North Uist, South Uist, and the smaller islands of Benbecula, Eriskay, Grimsay, and Berneray. They boast a blend of rugged beauty, natural splendour and cultural heritage to be explored.

My tips for visiting. Research prior to booking. Ensure you book your ferries and accommodation booked before you travel as spaces are limited. Campsites are few, therefore become full. CalMac Ferries have been excellent. There aren’t many eateries on the islands, so again, research and pre-book or be prepared to self-cater.

I have absolutely loved the islands & highly recommend visiting if nature and beautiful landscapes are your thing. Next stop Harris & Lewis…

The beautiful Balranald Beach, also known as Tràigh nam Faoghailean, is located on the west side of the Isle of North Uist near the RSPB nature reserve of the same name in the Outer Hebrides.

The beach boasts a pristine sandy shoreline. The sand is white, created from crushed shells deposited by wave action over time.

What’s not to like apart from the northerly winds that are hitting the isles at the moment 💨🤣.

The RSPB Balranald Nature Trail (Raon Gleidhteachas Bhaile Raghnaill) is situated in the Balranald Hebridean Nature Reserve on the Isle of North Uist.

This stunning reserve boasts sweeping sandy beaches, rocky foreshores, wild marshes, and sand dunes.

The circular nature trail winds through croft land, covering approximately 3 miles (4.5 km). It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It meanders through wildflower-rich machair, a unique coastal habitat abundant with colorful blooms. There is also You’ll also a bird-rich headland where various species thrive including rarer birds.

Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive corncrakes, now one of Europe’s most endangered birds. Lots of other wildlife to be seen too.

The breathtaking mix of coastline, moorland, dunes, and cliffs are stunning.

The campsite is a brilliant location and comes highly recommended.

A few from the Uists.

Flora MacDonald was born on the island of South Uist, in the Outer Hebrides, in 1722. Here you can visit the location where she was born.

Kallin harbour on The Isle of Grimsay is renowned for fishing. Here they catch shellfish, langoustines, lobster and fish. The majority is exported however you can buy some local produce at the harbour or around the Isles.

Our Lady of the Isles (Gaelic: Moire ro Naomh nan Eilean or Bana Thighearna nan Eilean) is a sculpture of the Madonna and Child, on South Uist in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.

The Carra Standing Stone, also known as Loch an Aithan standing stone, this prehistoric monument is the tallest standing stone in the southern isles, measuring over 17 feet high. It is set on the western slope of Beinn a' Charra.

Located between North Uist and South Uist, the Isle of Benbecula is known for its pretty sandy beaches on the west coast of the island.

The village of Balivanich is also known by its Gaelic name, Baile a'Mhanaich which means ‘town of the monks’. This refers back to the 6th century when there was a monastery here, and today the village is known as the ‘capital’ of the island with several shops and cafes to visit.

The beaches are stunning!

Post update with a photo of Neil’s Hebridean Thatching & Renovations last thatch at Clachan Sands so you can see how the stones are used.

Loch Skipport, also known as Loch Sgiopoirt in South Uist has a rich history. Once a bustling seaport for steamers sailing between Glasgow and the Outer Hebrides, it now offers tranquility and natural beauty. The drive from the main road is stunning.

You’ll encounter Shetland ponies along the route and I even spotted 2 large black pigs 🐷.

The loch played a role in the wanderings of Prince Charles during the Jacobite Rising. Fishermen at Loch Skipport helped smuggle the Prince across the guarded South Ford, adding to its historical intrigue.

You will see and hear “machair” (pronounced “maca”) a lot in the Uists. It is a Gaelic word meaning fertile, low-lying grassy plain, ‘machair’ refers to a unique habitat that is one of the rarest in Europe; only occurring on the exposed west-facing shores of Scotland and Ireland. Machair habitat is very similar to a fixed sand dune but is easily distinguished by its flat, or gently undulating landscape, and the variety of vegetation types and land-uses.

Machair is formed from lime-rich shell sand washed up thousands of years ago by the sea, and eroded from dunes by powerful winds, spreading the sand well inland. Light cattle-grazing, hay cutting and low intensity rotational crop farming (free of artificial fertilisers or pesticides) has shaped the landscape over millenia.

Askernish beach has white sand, made up from broken shells. The machair runs parallel to the beach and is ideal for walking. It is a haven for wildlife, such as the elusive corncrake and in the summer months the machair is peppered with an assorted variety of wildflowers, including rare orchids.

I was lucky enough to bump into and chat to Neil on Balivanich Beach this morning. Neil is the only person who currently makes a living from thatching with Marram grass in the Western Isles.

Neil shared his knowledge about the local area and thatching. When completed the thatch is held down by stones that can be found on the beaches. But they have to be just the right shape, size and weight. Neil very kindly let me help him search for them with him. An example of Neil’s last thatch at Clachan Sands shows how the stones are fitted.

Marram grass (Ammophila arenaria) is a tough, spiky plant that grows along the seashore, particularly in sand dunes. Its roots stabilise the dunes, allowing it to withstand strong winds and sand. When dry, Marram grass resembles a smaller version of water reed and is significantly tougher than most cereal straw.

Today Marram roofs are primarily found in the Hebrides, Scotland. Scotland has around 300 remaining thatched buildings, with a quarter of them located in the Western Isles, where Marram grass is most commonly used.

Thatching with Marram grass differs from straw or reed thatching. Turfs are laid on the timbers, and Marram grass is applied on top, secured with ropes and stones. Maintenance involves pushing new grass into the existing thatch, without removing the old layer. This method ensures the roof withstands high winds and extreme weather.

Thank you Neil Hebridean Thatching & Renovations it was great to meet you.

Howmore (Tobha Mòr) Ancient Chapels South Uist - here I met the beautiful Meg 🐶 and her Mum who passed on some really helpful local knowledge - thank you Jenni.

Monastic houses based on Irish prototypes spread throughout the west of Scotland from the 6th century onwards. Towards the end of the Norse period (9th - 13th century) a parish system was established in the islands, and from 1200 AD parish churches became more widespread. Many of them fell into disuse after the 16th century.

We do not know when the first chapel was built at Tobha Mòr, but a stone slab incised with an outlined cross may suggest a Christian presence here before the 9th century.

Later, a series of chapels and parish churches were built, and the remains of four of them can be seen today. The earliest may be no earlier than c. 1200 AD, but their character is reminiscent of early Irish Celtic monastic sites. The name Tobha comes from an Old Norse word meaning mound, and may refer to the artificial mound below Caibeal Chlann 'ic Ailein.

The remains of four or five churches and chapels survive at Tobha Mòr:

1. Caibeal Dubhail (Dugall's Chapel). A charming, tiny chapel of Irish type which had a steeply-pitched stone roof, and a door with sloping jambs, unusually in the east wall.
2. St Mary's church (Teampall Mòr). This was the parish church of South Uist, probably built in the later 13th century.
3. Caibeal Dhiarmaid (St Dermot's Chapel). This church predated Teampall Mòr, possibly of the earlier 13th century, and appears to have been much altered during its use.
4. Caibeal Chlann 'ic Ailein (Clan Ranald chapel). This occupies the highest (and oldest) ground. Originally a chapel with an eastern doorway similar to Caibeal Dubhail, butlater a nave was added (now lost) with moulded chancel arch of 12th or early 13th century date. John of Moidart (Eoin Muidearach) left funds to rebuild the chapel, inwhich he was buried in 1574, incorporating the fine armorial panel now in Kildonan Museum.

Another chapel, Caibeal Colla, was demolished shortly before 1866, now occupied by the burial enclosure Cabeal na Sagairt. Another burial enclosure, Cabeal na Mhinister, was built around 1700 for Flora Macdonald's grandfather.

Info from https://www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk/see-and-do/howmore-tobha-mhor-ancient-chapels-p522141

The Isle of Eriskay, nestled to the immediate south of South Uist in the Outer Hebrides, is a place of captivating beauty. Here are some highlights:

Eriskay witnessed two remarkable events. First, it’s where Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scottish soil in 1745, aiming to reclaim the British throne.

Second, the infamous shipwreck of the S.S. Politician in 1941 led to islanders recovering 22,000 cases of single malt whisky—a tale immortalised in the film ‘Whisky Galore.’

Eriskay boasts turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and shallow bays. The coastline is wild, rugged, and teeming with marine wildlife.

Watch out for sea otters 🦦 crossing on all of the causeways in between the Uist islands. Sadly I haven’t seen one yet.

Did you know sea dwelling otters must keep their fur free of salt using freshwater to wash for it to remain effective as insulation?

The ferry from Mallaig Scotland mainland to Lochboisdale in the southern Uists Outer Hebrides- 60 miles / 3.5 hours. Impressed with CalMac Ferries, customer service from booking queries to travel have been excellent 👌

Arisaig on the Scottish mainland, what a beautiful place and great stop before the ferry to the Outer Hebrides and the Uists. A first for me… 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

A few view stops on the way - Bridge of Orchy and around Glencoe & Loch Leven. What’s not to ❤️ 📸

Lochan of the Lost Sword. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The Legend…
Nestled amidst the rugged landscape of Strathfillan, lies a lochan (a small body of water) known as the Lochan of the Lost Sword.

The Battle of Dalrigh 1306, Scotland was embroiled in conflict. Robert the Bruce, a warrior and future king, faced off against the Clan MacDougall. The battle raged near Dalrigh, and Bruce’s forces suffered a devastating defeat. His men were weary, their spirits broken.

Bruce narrowly escaped capture, but his army was in disarray. As they fled, burdened by their weapons, Bruce made a fateful decision. He ordered his men to cast their heavy swords and claymores into the lochan. The water swallowed their steel, and legend has it that even Bruce’s own meter-long claymore found its resting place at the bottom.

The lochan is said to be guarded by the mysterious “Lady of the Loch.” She watches over the sunken swords, their blades hidden beneath the tranquil surface.

The Lochan of the Lost Sword invites you to ponder the past and honor those who once stood on its shores.

A great pit stop enroute to the Hebrides.

Kilbride Campsite & Cafe South Uist in the Outer Hebrides - fantastic location, campsite and breakfast! 10/10! 😎

Crossed the border and Uists bound. An off the cuff pit stop.

In 1689, James, Earl of Angus, raised the Cameronian Regiment in Braidlea, Douglas. This regiment, later known as the Scottish Rifles, served both country and county for 300 years before disbanding in 1968.

Douglas Castle, besieged, destroyed, and rebuilt multiple times, finally succumbed to demolition in 1938. Only the proud remains of Castle Dangerous (built circa 1457) stand as a testament to the House of Douglas’s remarkable resilience.

Douglas is unique in Scotland due to the number of Polish Army monuments that have survived over the years. Three such monuments, dating back to 1940, form the physical basis of the Polish Memorial Garden in Douglas. These monuments were created by Polish soldiers who were evacuated to the village during the war.

Watching the sun go down at Shell Island.

Shell Island, also known as Mochras, is a stunning peninsula located west of Llanbedr in Gwynedd, Wales. It’s not actually an island but rather a beautiful piece of land connected to the Welsh coast.

There are wonderful views of the Welsh coast and countryside, including Cardigan Bay and the Snowdonia National Park. Here you can camp by the shore or on the head land and wake up to the sound of waves and gaze out at the rugged coastline.

It is said to be one of Europe’s largest campsite. It has excellent facilities including a small supermarket, gift store and a tavern. A bargain at just under £11 per person per night.

Vehicular access to Shell Island is possible via a causeway across the River Artro estuary during low tide. Keep an eye on the tides to plan your arrival and departure.

Blaenau Ffestiniog is a town in Wales that marries industrial heritage with breathtaking natural landscapes. Once renowned for its slate quarries, which roofed the world, Blaenau Ffestiniog has transformed into a hub for outdoor and history enthusiasts.

The waterfall near the Tanygrisiau Reservoir just out of town is worth a visit. The surrounding scenery is beautiful, and you can glimpse into its slate past and enjoy nature.

Let me start at the end – this is the best pasty I have ever tasted!

I saw Kurmang Rashid’s story on the Hairy Bikers and as usual, off I went to visit. And what a warm welcome from the man himself. Kurmang exudes charisma and chats away with glee to all that enter the Model Bakery in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales.

Kurmang used to be a rocket scientist and moved here after a holiday, as he felt it was like the mountainous region of his roots, Kurdistan. Albeit there is more rain here he informs me!

The bakery sells bread, cakes, confections, sandwiches, home cooked roast ham, meat pies, the list goes on. But the pièce de resistance and what he tells me has gone viral since the Hairy Bikers visited are his ‘Kurmang’s Kurdish Pasties.

They are not a pastry pasty like we are accustomed to, they are encased in bread, the recipe being his closely guarded secret – I can see why.

Meat and vegan versions are available, there is spicy and mild, steady on the spicy one unless you like madras strength.

Get there early, as these beauties are made fresh each day and regularly sell out.

I will be back! Thank you Kurmang, you left a smile on my face in many ways.

Stopped off to marvel at the wonderful vista along the B4391 in Wales and spotted this gem.

Pont (bridge in Welsh) Taihirion spans the Afon (Welsh for river) Tai-Hirion also known as the "Roman Bridge," or “Borrow's Bridge”. It is estimated to have been built in the Elizabethan period (1558–1603). It is 2.9m wide and has a single arch spanning 5m resting on vertical piers built of large boulders.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance knowledge of post-medieval transport.

A great place to stop off and enjoy the view & history. Take care as it is particularly boggy in places!

Langley Chapel - a hidden gem in a corner of a field in Shropshire which was built in1601. I came across this one after seeing a signpost and went off to explore.

Unlike many churches of its time, Langley Chapel retains its original wooden furnishings, including the box pews, pulpit, communion table and a raised desk for musicians at the west end of the church. These provide a rare insight into the approach to worship during the early 17th century.

The last regular service was held in 1871. In 1914, it became one of the first buildings to be taken into the care of the state, the Ministry of Works as it had been left. Due to it being abandoned meant it escaped modernisation and remains a rare time capsule of the 17th century.

The church is now under the care of English Heritage, free entry, look out for the large key on the door to gain entry!

Tucked away in Shropshire, is the hidden gem of the medieval red sandstone shell of Acton Burnell Castle, though both elements of a fortified manor house and castle. Built between 1284 and 1293 by Bishop Robert Burnell, who served as Edward the First Lord Chancellor.

Historically significant, Acton Burnell Castle played a unique role, it hosted England's first recorded Parliament in 1283 and another in 1285.

By 1420, the castle was abandoned, and it gradually fell into disrepair. However, nearby Acton Burnell Hall was built during this period, serving as a replacement residence.

Looked after by English Heritage and free entry.

Make sure you pop next door to St Mary's Church, built in the 13th century again by Bishop Burnell and houses his tomb. The church is a fine example of Early English Gothic architecture, characterised by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and tall, narrow windows.

A Landy day visiting one of my favourite places, Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd in the Shropshire Hills.

Carding Mill Valley is named after the 19th-century carding mill that once operated here. The valley is characterised by its lush greenery, babbling streams, and rolling hills. It's an ideal spot for a picnic, walks, and bird watching.

The Long Mynd, is a high heathland plateau that stretches for miles and offers amazing panoramic views. It feels wild and rugged. "Mynd" is an old Welsh word meaning mountain.

If you are lucky enough, you will get to see the wild ponies on the Long Mynd. They have been part of the landscape for centuries and have adapted remarkably well to the harsh conditions.

A new way back over the Mynd this time, passing through the Gatten Valley and I stumbled across Pollardine Farm’s wildflower meadow. Here 170,000 daffodils have been planted. Sadly, too late this year to see them but noted for next year! They also support the excellent Marie Curie charity which provides hospice care and support if you would like to donate.

Stunning scenery around every turn, a must visit.

Nestled in the heart of Staffordshire, the historic city of Lichfield offers a blend of heritage, architecture, and literary significance.

At the heart of Lichfield lies its most iconic landmark, Lichfield Cathedral. Dating back to the 12th century. This Gothic cathedral dominates the city's skyline with its towering spires and intricate stonework and is one of the oldest places of Christian worship in Britain. Inside, you are greeted by an interior adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate carvings.

Chad is the saint and bishop to whom Lichfield Cathedral is dedicated. When he was appointed Bishop of Mercia, one of the most powerful Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, Chad chose to centre his administration in Lichfield. He founded a church and a community here in 669 which became the religious heart of the kingdom.

Lichfield is also renowned for one of England's most celebrated literary figures, Dr. Samuel Johnson. Born here in 1709, Johnson is best known for his pioneering work, "A Dictionary of the English Language," which was published in 1755 and remained the standard English dictionary until the Oxford English Dictionary was published more than a century later. Find out lots more in the museum dedicated to him which is also where he was born.

Lots to see and do here, charming streets, beautiful architecture, bustling markets, cafes and river walks.

Another day, another aqueduct – Pontcysyllte in North Wales, one of the most remarkable engineering feats of engineering in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a triumph of Victorian engineering.

Completed in 1805, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was designed by civil engineer Thomas Telford to carry the Llangollen Canal over the River Dee. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest and longest aqueduct in the world.

The aqueduct stands at a 38m high, spans 307m in length and is supported by 18 stone pillars. It is the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain.

You can walk across the aqueduct and will be treated to stunning views of the Dee Valley below.